Study of bypassing Microsoft Windows Security using the MITRE CALDERA Framework

Area of Science:

• Cybersecurity
• Information Security
• Computer Science

Background:

• Microsoft Windows Security is a key defense for Windows 10 and 11.
• Current Windows Security has significant limitations against Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs).
• APTs are state-sponsored entities targeting government organizations for data exfiltration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of Microsoft Windows Security against APTs.
• To demonstrate methods used by APTs to circumvent Windows Security defenses.
• To identify vulnerabilities in Windows Security exploited during cyberattacks.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the MITRE CALDERA platform with the ATT&CK framework.
• Employed the "54ndc47" agent developed in GoLang for testing.
• Simulated APT attack scenarios to bypass Windows Security on MS Windows 10.

Main Results:

• Successfully bypassed Microsoft Windows Security on Windows 10.
• Demonstrated the capability to access and display all files on a compromised victim device.
• Confirmed the vulnerability of Windows Security to sophisticated APT tactics.

Conclusions:

• Provided actionable recommendations for Microsoft to enhance Windows Security.
• Suggested the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to bolster defenses against APTs.
• Emphasized the ongoing need for advanced security solutions to counter evolving cyber threats.